What's New For the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas?

The Volkswagen Atlas came out in 2018, so it won't have any significant changes for 2020. Nevertheless, it has many enjoyable amenities. This SUV comes standard with Volkswagen's innovative Car-Net infotainment system. A rarity for its class, the Atlas also offers WiFi as a standard convenience. While there are many delightful features across the board with the 2020 VW Atlas, there are some trim-specific highlights to note, too.

This includes a foot-activated liftgate on the Tech R-Line trim, which also now comes standard with parking sensors. The SEL Premium turns heads with bold 21-inch wheels, while the SE upgrades to 20-inch wheels. All trims also have a four-year or 50,000-mile warranty.

Which Trims & Features are Available in 2020?

The 2020 VW Atlas comes in three trims. The base is the S. It offers several useful and aesthetically-pleasing features from the outside in. All three trims have sharp-looking exteriors, which includes some shared amenities and some trim-specific features. The S comes with power-adjustable side mirrors for convenience. Its mirrors are also heated, which is rare for a base trim. It also gets rain-sensing windshield wipers, LED headlights, daytime running lights, and 18-inch wheels.

Silver roof rails facilitate towing and storage while simultaneously giving the trim a more dramatic look. Inside, the S comes with a start-stop system and power steering with variable assistance. Cloth seats are standard, and the driver's seat is manually adjustable in six ways. Volkswagen's own Car-Net app connect feature is a welcome addition for tech-savvy drivers. It comes with a 6.5-inch color display with Bluetooth. Dual-zone climate control is standard with vents in all three rows. The SE adds more with four standard USB charging ports. It also has a tri-zone climate control along with air vents in all three rows. A larger eight-inch infotainment system comes standard on this trim level.

You can also choose the captain's chairs for the back row to create even more space. The SE is offered with a number of packages, including a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a tow hitch package. Topping the line is the SEL. This trim level comes with all-wheel drive, remote start capabilities, parking distance control, and a panoramic sunroof. You can add captain's chairs to this trim, too, along with a variety of wheel designs and standard wheel sizes of either 20 or 21 inches.

A Perfect Blend of Power and Fuel Efficiency

The 2020 VW Atlas offers an assortment of engine options and powertrains. The base engine is a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder that produces up to 235 HP. This engine has a maximum torque production of 258 LB-FT. The second engine is a V6 with a top power output of 276 HP and 266 LB-FT of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission comes standard, and some trims have 4Motion.

Safety Features in the Forefront for 2020

Safety abounds in the 2020 VW Atlas, which comes standard with a backup camera and advanced airbags. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, a safety cage, and post-crash braking are standard safety amenities not found on many of the SUV's competitors.